It is important to recognise the early warning signs of a blood clot, which is essentially an area of thickened blood that has formed a semi-solid mass inside of a vein. A blood clot that forms in the leg leads to swelling, tenderness, redness and a warm feeling around the area of the clot, Healthdirect stated. Book an appointment as soon as possible if you suspect you have a blood clot.
You are likely to be referred for a CT or ultrasound if your doctor also suspects you have a blood clot.
In addition, you might be required to have a blood test to check for signs that your blood is clotting more than it should.
Most commonly, blood clots found in the leg can be treated by taking blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin.
This will help prevent the clot from growing bigger, and it will also help to prevent new clots from forming.
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This involves leading a sedentary lifestyle, as not moving for a long time can increase the risk of a blood clot developing.
Sometimes this can’t be helped, for instance if you have a leg injury or often travel on long-haul flights.
Your risk of developing a blood clot also increases if you have had a previous blood clot, or if you have a blood disorder.
This includes any type of health condition that makes clotting more likely.
Other factors that can increase the risk of a blood clot include:
- You have cancer
- You are overweight
- You are pregnant
- You are over 65
- Blood clots run in your family
- You smoke
- You are taking some kinds of birth control pill.
Signs of a blood clot in the brain
Otherwise known as a stroke, symptoms include weakness or drooping on one side of the face, difficulty speaking or understanding others, blurred vision and a severe headache.
Remember to act FAST if you notice symptoms of a stroke, as the condition can be life-threatening and requires emergency treatment.
- Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped.
- Arms – the person may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
- Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake; they may also have problems understanding what you’re saying to them.
- Time – it’s time to dial 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs or symptoms.
Signs of a blood clot in the heart
Otherwise known as a heart attack, symptoms can include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling weak and light-headed
- Nausea
- A cold sweat
- Feeling anxious.
These too warrant a quick call to 999 to request an ambulance to come and get you.
Signs of a blood clot in the lungs
Known as a pulmonary embolism, symptoms can include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, sweating, and a rapid heartbeat.
In addition, you may feel dizzy and clammy – this too requires a prompt call to 999.